The Coffee Chop Kicks Off Coffee Class Series at Crepe Bar in Tempe

Coffee brewed at home tastes great -- especially when you actually know what you're doing.

Phoenix coffee connoisseur Perry Czopp knows a hell of a lot about coffee. He's made a commitment to helping others learn about the art of all things java through his business, The Coffee Chop. The Chop offers coffee tours and tastings, and he hosts regular competitions that pit local baristas against each other in a friendly contest for best latte art.

But the crazy caffienated fun doesn't stop there. This month, you can also catch the Chop at Crepe Bar in Tempe, where he'll be kicking off The Knowledge Series, a "Morning Sessions Blend" of "Coffee Education, Award-Winning Food, [and] Instagram Rock Stars."

The first class, Alternative Brewing Methods, will teach guests how to use three new brewing methods at home. Czopp acknowledges that intimidating tools might keep many coffee drinkers sticking with Mr. Coffee, but he says it can be easy to use alternative brewing methods in the comfort of your own kitchen.

"Tools like the Chemex, V-60, and Aeropress are commonplace in today's specialty coffee shops. Each is designed to get the best flavors from your beans, but you don't need to be a certified barista to use them," Czopp says.

The class, which costs $45 per person for advanced registration, will include coffee education, and tastings, as well as small bites from the Crepe Bar kitchen. Attendees will sample coffee brewed using each of the methods and attempt them, as well.

The second course in the series, "secrets of the roasting process," will be held May 18.

Alternative Brewing Methods will be from 8:30 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, at Crepe Bar in Tempe. Registration is $45 per person in advance and $52 per person on the day of the event. Pre-registration is available at The Coffee Chop website.

For updates on the classes, follow Perry Czopp @thecoffeechop and Crêpe Bar Chef Jeff Kraus @garsdecrepe on Instagram and Facebook.